The Secret Power of Trade Discounts: Why Every Supplier Should Embrace Them
Let’s be honest: interior designers are some of the most influential tastemakers in the world of design. They’re the ones specifying, sourcing, and recommending, curating entire spaces that clients trust implicitly. And for independent makers, artisan studios, and emerging brands, they can become not just customers, but invaluable partners. But here’s the real secret to capturing and keeping their business: trade discounts. Now, before you think of discounts as simply lowering your price, let’s reframe. A well-structured trade programme isn’t a giveaway, it’s an investment in long-term, high-value relationships. In fact, it’s one of the smartest growth levers for brands looking to scale in the interior design space.
Why Trade Discounts Matter
Interior designers rarely work on a single room, or even a single client. They’re sourcing for multi-room residences, boutique hotels, private members’ clubs, and retail spaces. And they’re always on the hunt for that perfect piece that feels unique, beautifully made, and differentiated from the mass market.
When you offer trade pricing, you’re not just tempting them with a better price point, you’re signaling that you understand how they work:
- They need margin to present options to their clients.
- They appreciate consistency and transparency in pricing.
- And they’re far more likely to build ongoing, repeat relationships with suppliers who treat them like professional collaborators.
Larger Orders. Bigger Projects. Consistent Revenue.
A retail customer may purchase a statement chair. An interior designer may specify ten of them along with bar stools, lighting, side tables, and custom finishes for an entire project.
Trade buyers aren’t one-and-done shoppers. They’re volume clients. Offering trade discounts allows you to unlock these larger orders while still protecting your margins and more importantly, positioning your brand as their trusted, go-to resource.
Become Part of Their Creative Process
Interior designers build what we like to call “mental libraries” , their own personal rolodex of brands and artisans they trust to deliver. You want to be in that library. Trade pricing helps you get there.
By offering them professional terms, responsive service, and reliable fulfillment, you don’t just become a supplier you become part of their process, part of their palette. You’re who they call when their next dream project lands.
Stand Out in a Crowded Marketplace
Let’s not sugarcoat it: there are a lot of suppliers vying for designers’ attention. From big-box DTC brands to global manufacturers, designers are flooded with options.
But here’s where you have the advantage:
- Your craftsmanship.
- Your story.
- Your ability to adapt and collaborate.
Add trade pricing to that mix, and you instantly become a more viable, accessible option, one that’s perfectly positioned for design professionals seeking originality without the logistical headaches.
A Foundation for Deeper Partnerships
Trade pricing often opens the door to deeper, more collaborative partnerships. Designers may request:
- Exclusive customisations
- Limited-run collections
- Cross-promotional collaborations
The more aligned your interests, the more likely these creative partnerships emerge — elevating both your visibility and revenue.
Balance Growth and Profitability
A well-structured trade programme doesn’t mean sacrificing profits. It means segmenting your pricing intelligently:
- Full margin retail for direct-to-consumer clients.
- Trade pricing that reflects volume, repeat business, and professional service.
- Strategic promotions to attract and reward top trade partners.
The goal is to create a healthy balance between exposure, loyalty, and long-term revenue growth.
The Maison Source Difference
At Maison Source, we’ve built a platform designed specifically to foster these high-value relationships between artisans and interior professionals. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Access to a curated network of verified trade buyers actively sourcing for real projects.
- Simplified onboarding and support to help you showcase your collections beautifully.
- Commission structures designed for sustainable growth, not quick wins.
- Concierge onboarding for founding suppliers — personal support every step of the way.
By joining now, you position your brand in front of design professionals who value craftsmanship, originality, and service and who are actively searching for suppliers like you.
In short?
Trade pricing isn’t a cost. It’s a growth strategy. The right trade partnerships fuel your brand, expand your reach, and keep your workshop full, season after season.